Animal shelters around the world are home-away-from-home not just to our furred and feathered friends, but also to a bunch of hard-working, big-hearted people. I go in and photograph the lovelies up for adoption, but these wonderful workers care tirelessly for animals who have found themselves in a shelter.

At this time of year many people think about getting a pet for Christmas but sadly not all consider the responsibility that goes with the privilege of welcoming a furbaby into our homes. Don't get me wrong - they're a great gift, as long as you remember they're a family member to be cared for, not a trinket to put on a shelf. One of my most favourite gifts ever was a kitten we called Moses, who lived up to his name in longevity with the 22 years we shared as part of our family. Not all live to such a grand age, but they do all need us for however many trips around the sun we are blessed to travel with them.

Back in October, when the SPCA Hastings & Districts approached me to photograph their 2017 fundraiser calendar, I jumped at the opportunity. I had dogs, cats and bunnies come through my studio, plus a lamb and a chicken that I photographed for the SPCA Napier & Hawke's Bay's calendar. Below are a few outtakes from the portrait sessions. Ya gotta love animals!

Do you have your copy yet? This lovely spiral bound, A3 sized calendar is only $10, with all proceeds going to the SPCA Hastings & Districts. They're available for sale from the following locations: